Report: Washington Capitals to host 2015 NHL Winter Classic

Washington Capitals goalie Braden Holtby leaves the NHL hockey game against the Buffalo Sabres after he gave up three goals during the second period, Tuesday, March 27, 2012, in Washington. Also seen are Capitals left wing Alexander Semin, center, of Russia, and Troy Brouwer, right. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

WASHINGTON – The Winter Classic is coming to Washington.

Citing an NHL source, The Washington Post reports that the Washington Capitals will host the 2015 NHL Winter Classic — the league’s annual outdoor game. The Caps played in the 2011 version of the contest — beating the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-1 at Heinz Field — and the team’s majority owner, Ted Leonsis, has said the game eventually would come to the District.

The Post notes that the District has several stadium options that may be able to host an outdoor hockey game, although Nationals Park may be the front-runner, considering Nats owner Mark Lerner is a minority partner in Leonsis’ Monumental Sports & Entertainment.

For their part, the Capitals have scheduled a “major announcement” for 10 a.m. Saturday at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Stay tuned.